The dark web is a key enabler for cybercrime. It allows bad actors to share tools, knowledge, and services secretly.

Anyone wanting to buy illegal items—like cyber-attack tools or drugs—can find them on dark web marketplaces. These markets appear and disappear quickly as they get blocked. They are usually advertised on dark web forums, and some even have mirror sites on the clear web.

Researching the dark web is hard because marketplaces have short lifespans. They come and go quickly. That’s why NordLayer and NordStellar decided to analyze dark web forums instead.

Forums are more stable over time. This stability makes it possible to see trends in discussions. These forums mix legal topics like news, politics, and content sharing with illegal activities.

However, legal activities like whistleblowing make up less than 1% of the content. Illegal activities are the largest part. By studying these forums, we wanted to uncover new trends in illicit activities.

Our research shows that illicit posts peak in November, December, and January. The darkest months of the year also see the most activity in the web’s shadowy corners.

Why is winter the peak season for illicit posts?

We studied posts from June 2023 to October 2024. We categorized posts by topics and focused on illicit ones. Here’s how those posts were distributed:

These numbers reflect posts on the dark web, not actual attacks. However, research by BitNinja Security, Cloud Security Alliance, and Mimecast shows that Q4 is also when most cyber-attacks take place. This suggests a link between increased dark web activity and real-world cybercrime during this period.

Why are threat actors more active in dark months, both discussing illicit topics and committing crimes?

It’s a known issue. Black Friday is already called Black Fraud Day. In the UK only, more than 16,000 reports of online shopping fraud were recorded between November 2023 and January 2024, with each victim losing £695 on average.

But on dark web forums, people discuss not only cybercrime. A big part of forums is about sharing pirated software and media, like movies.

This number grows in dark months. Comparing the summer months of 2023 with November—January, the number of dark forum posts about all kinds of pirated content surged by 105%.

Like advanced persistent threats, “advanced persistent teenagers” are now a problem. Bored but skilled threat actors cause major disruptions. They trick employees with emails and calls, posing as help desk staff. These attacks lead to data breaches affecting millions. Teenagers now show techniques once limited to nation-states.

Another factor is adding to the boredom of dark web forum users. They are mostly from countries where winter is pretty harsh. Most users accessing Tor—the browser used for dark web activities—are from Germany (36%), the US (14%), and Finland (4%). For countries where users access Tor via bridges, the top is Russia (41%). Maybe dark web forums are just the coziest winter hangouts.

Changing platforms and AI effects on cybercrime

Our research shows that September and October of 2024 had much fewer posts about illicit things on dark web forums than a year before. Why is that?

Another trend affecting dark web discussions could be AI use in cybercrime.

Retail and cloud computing giant Amazon, which can now view activity on around 25% of all IP addresses on the internet, says it is seeing hundreds of millions more possible cyber threats across the web each day compared to earlier this year. They used to see about 100 million hits per day, but that number has grown to 750 million over six or seven months.

Amazon’s Chief Information Security Officer is sure AI is making tasks easier for ordinary people, allowing them to do things they couldn’t do before just by asking the computer. This might explain fewer discussions on dark web forums—why ask others when AI can do the work for you?

How to protect organizations during peak cybercrime seasons

So, winter months bring not only holidays but also heightened cyber risks. Instead of enjoying time with your family, you might find yourself dealing with cyber-attacks.

But don’t worry—there are steps you can take to protect your organization. The good news is these measures aren’t expensive or hard to implement.

Many of these precautions are the same as those needed year-round. Basic cybersecurity practices like employee training, strong passwords, and regular software updates are essential.

Employee education is the first line of defense.

Prepare now to minimize risks during the peak cyber-attack season.

With AI making cyber-attacks easier, it’s crucial to think about these things right now, when the cyber-attack season is at its peak. The next year could bring even more advanced threats.

So, give your company a Christmas present and invest in a solid cybersecurity solution.

Methodology

NordStellar acquired data from over 80 forums where illicit activities are most often discussed. These forums span different web layers: the clear web, the deep web, and the dark web. We gathered textual content from forum threads between June 2023 and October 2024. The numbers we obtained represent the number of forum posts.

We used a fine-tuned AI model to categorize dark web posts into 67 tags. These tags were then grouped into 10 broader categories. For example, the tag “SERVICE” refers to posts where users offer services for a fee, including hacking or hiring hitmen. This tag falls under “Illicit services and marketplaces.” 

The study is thorough but has limitations from analyzing posts on approximately 80 forums only. Additionally, the shorter lifecycle of criminal sites and the rapid rise of mirror sites can affect data consistency and completeness.

Now, businesses face many online threats that can jeopardize network security, reduce employee productivity, and compromise regulatory compliance. Domain Name System (DNS) filtering is a powerful tool for protecting against these threats by blocking access to harmful websites—those that may host malware, phishing attempts, or inappropriate content.

Beyond protecting your network, DNS filtering tools improve workplace productivity by limiting access to non-work-related websites. They also help ensure compliance by restricting access to certain types of content.

However, with many DNS filtering providers available, selecting the right one can be overwhelming. This guide will walk you through the key factors to consider when choosing the best DNS filtering solution for your organization.

How DNS filtering solutions work

DNS filtering is like a gatekeeper for internet usage, preventing access to malicious or inappropriate websites before they can harm your network. By intercepting DNS queries—requests users make when accessing a website—the filtering system determines whether the requested domain is safe based on predefined security policies.

Typically, DNS servers function like an internet “phonebook,” translating domain names into IP addresses to connect your browser and the required website.

With a DNS filtering solution in place, however, each query undergoes additional checks. If the requested site is flagged on a blocklist or is identified as a security risk, the DNS resolver blocks the request, preventing the page from loading and neutralizing potential cyber threats.

Benefits of implementing a DNS filtering solution

Deploying a DNS filtering solution offers a range of benefits that go beyond basic Internet browsing controls:

Internet threat prevention

Each organization should control employee online traffic. By blocking access to sketchy sites full of malware, phishing, or ransomware, DNS filtering solutions shield your network from all kinds of cyber-attacks before they even have a chance to strike.

Keeping productivity on point

Let’s face it—distractions are everywhere. DNS filtering tools help minimize those distractions by blocking non-work-related sites so your team can stay focused and get more done.

Improved network performance

No more bandwidth hogs. A DNS filtering solution ensures your network runs smoothly and efficiently by limiting heavy streaming or large file downloads.

Security compliance

Worried about regulations? DNS filtering helps you meet industry standards by controlling access to restricted content and protecting your business from potential legal and reputational risks.

Keeping remote workers safe

With more people working remotely, DNS filtering solutions block online threats and secure sensitive data, no matter where your employees log in.

Filtering for safer Internet access

Whether it’s a school, home, or workplace, DNS filtering blocks inappropriate or harmful content, creating web filtering for schools or employees.

5 considerations for choosing the best DNS filtering solution

When it comes to selecting a DNS filtering provider, it’s essential to weigh your options carefully. With so many choices out there, understanding the key factors can help you find the right fit for your organization. Here are some critical considerations to keep in mind:

#1 Technical architecture

The backbone of a solid DNS filtering solution is its technical architecture. You’ve got two main options: cloud-based or on-premise. Cloud-based solutions are super scalable. They make it easier to grow with your business’s security needs. They are also easier to deploy, need less maintenance, and usually come with real-time updates.

On-premise solutions give you more control over your data. This can be a big help if you have strict privacy rules. However, they might require higher initial costs, more time, and greater expertise to maintain.

Another thing to keep in mind is DNS resolution speed—how fast it can process requests and load websites. A provider with a global network will keep things running smoothly with less lag when accessing sites.

#2 Advanced threat detection

In today’s world, you need more than just the basics. Look for a DNS filtering solution that’s equipped with advanced threat detection. Such a solution must monitor network activity in real-time, spotting and blocking threats like malware and phishing before they can mess with your network. As cyber threats keep evolving, having a tool that adapts is a must.

#3 Integration with existing systems

Whatever DNS filtering solution you pick should be compatible with your current system. Make sure it works well with your existing security infrastructure, like your firewall or Security Information and Event Management (SIEM) tools. Some providers even offer API access for easy integration with third-party tools or custom solutions. A smooth integration means less hassle for your IT team and a more seamless security experience.

#4 Granular policy management

DNS filtering is designed to restrict access to specific content, but when it comes to defining exclusive rules for network access, we enter a different technological area. Therefore, when selecting DNS filtering solutions, it’s best to look for comprehensive products beyond content restriction and address network access use cases.

Fine-tuning access with your DND filtering solution helps boost productivity and security, keeping everyone where they need to be.

#5 Real-time analytics and reporting

Keeping tabs on what’s happening in your network is essential. Make sure your DNS filtering provider offers real-time analytics and reporting so you can spot potential threats, check network activity, and stay compliant. Detailed DNS query logs and custom reports are especially useful for digging into incidents or proving you’re following industry regulations.

Tips for selecting the best DNS filtering solution

• Check out content control features: Look for customizable filtering options that let you block malware, phishing attempts, adult content, gambling sites, and more. Keeping distractions and risks at bay is key for productivity and compliance.
• Make sure it has solid security features: Don’t settle for basic protection. Your DNS filtering solution has strong encryption, advanced threat detection, and malware protection. These features add extra layers of security, especially when your data is in transit.
• Go for user-friendly setup and centralized management: Setting up DNS filtering shouldn’t be a headache. Look for something simple to install with centralized management so your IT team can control everything from one spot, enforce policies, and quickly handle any issues.
• Look for customization options: Every business is different, so you’ll want a solution that lets you fine-tune filtering rules to fit your specific needs. Flexibility is key to keeping security tight without slowing down business activities.

Conclusion

Choosing a DNS filtering solution for your business is critical. It impacts everything from your cybersecurity to productivity and compliance. Take the time to evaluate things like the technical architecture, how the provider handles threats, and how well the solution integrates with your current systems. Opt for providers that offer robust security, real-time reporting, and detailed control over access to make sure you’re getting the best DNS filtering solution possible.

With the right DNS filtering in place, you can protect your network, control online interactions, and create a safer, more productive work environment for your team.

How NordLayer can help

NordLayer offers easy-to-use DNS filtering capabilities to protect your network. With features like DNS filtering by category, Web Protection, and Download Protection, keeping your team safe is simple. Setup is quick, even for non-tech users, and managing security for your whole team is straightforward.

• DNS filtering by category allows IT admins to block content from over 50 categories. This helps keep your network secure and your team focused.
• Web Protection automatically blocks access to websites that are flagged as potentially malicious.
• Download Protection scans every new file download and removes harmful files before they can infect your devices.

These features can work together to prevent risks like malware infections and phishing. But that’s not all. All NordLayer customers get encrypted connections and masked IP addresses. This ensures your internet access is secure, no matter where you are.

Want to learn more? Contact NordLayer’s sales team to see how we can help protect your network.

Virtual private clouds (VPCs) are virtualized cloud environments hosted on public cloud infrastructure. We use VPCs to create self-contained cloud environments with robust security protection. If you need to guard sensitive data or segment cloud assets, VPC solutions could be the best option.

A VPC also has financial benefits. When we compare virtual private cloud vs. private cloud solutions, virtualized hosting almost always cuts costs (and often improves performance).

If you choose to deploy a VPC, it’s vital to do so securely. VPCs are always vulnerable without the correct access controls and other security measures. This article will explore VPC security in more depth, including VPC security best practices to lock down your cloud-hosted assets.

Importance of securing VPC

VPC security matters because cloud security failures have dire consequences. Cloud attacks are also increasingly common. According to IBM’s Cost of a Data Breach Report 2024, 82% of breaches involved cloud-stored data.

In the same year, companies admit losing over 1 billion customer records to data thieves. One of the largest attacks targeted cloud data hosting company Snowflake, leaking records from AT&T, Ticketmaster, and even banking giant Santander.

Not all cloud deployments are equal. Comparisons between private cloud and public cloud solutions show that private cloud deployments protect data more efficiently. And virtual private clouds can be even more robust. Even so, unsecured cloud data is always at risk.

Despite these risks, confusion remains about who handles VPC security. Many companies assume their cloud vendor handles all security, so they set up their cloud service and forget about it. This is a mistake. Cloud security is a shared responsibility.

Vendors secure underlying infrastructure, including barriers between VPC instances. Users must secure access to cloud-hosted assets, including VPCs. Without robust controls, outsiders can breach VPCs and easily access data.

VPC best practices for security

Securing every VPC is critically important. There is no room for complacency, whether you handle protected health information or financial records. Fortunately, you can cut data breach risks by applying VPC security fundamentals.

What is VPC security all about? The list below includes security best practices to guide your virtual cloud deployment.

1. Configure your VPC securely

VPC security begins with configuration settings, including network segmentation, route tables, and network access control lists (NACLs).

VPC architecture enables basic segmentation via classless inter-domain routing (CIDR) blocks and subnets. CIDR blocks specify the number and range of allowable IP addresses on each VPC. Subnets are logically connected groups of IP addresses within the VPC and can be public or private.

A public subnet retains direct internet connectivity, creating an access risk if the subnet relates to sensitive resources. A private subnet lets you separate sensitive resources from other VPC assets and the public internet. This is a more secure VPC design solution.

VPC configuration should also consider the role of route tables and access control lists. These tools filter access requests and complement each other in VPC architecture.

Route tables record IP addresses linked to private subnets. They route traffic to connected assets, preventing general access to other resources.

Network access control lists (ACLs) define which users can enter a VPC subnet. When creating a VPC, check the default ACL settings. Most platforms allow all inbound and outbound traffic. Custom ACLs let you approve legitimate users, adding an extra layer of network security.

Finally, security groups logically group users and VPC assets. They also tend to have default settings that you can customize as needed. Check port, protocol, and IP addresses, and modify default security group configurations to suit your needs.

2. Securing access

Securing access is probably the most important VPC security best practice. Identity and Access Management (IAM) for VPCs includes internal and external controls. Both are critical in VPC security.

Internal controls define how users act inside the VPC perimeter. Platforms like Amazon Web Services use security groups to assign permissions for all users. Following the principle of least privilege (PoLP), permissions should enable access to essential resources while blocking access to everything else.

Access controls must also filter traffic originating outside the VPC.

NordLayer can help you manage external VPC access by network users. Our tools allow VPC users to implement flexible, lightweight, yet powerful controls for all users. VPN coverage links to VPC private gateways, concealing endpoints from external actors.

Remote workers can connect securely via our site-to-site VPN that encrypts VPC connections. Device posture management approves only compliant user devices, while multi-factor authentication guards against common credential theft attacks.

Secure API access is also vital. Services like AWS VPC Link create secure gateways for API calls. Avoid exposed VPC endpoints at all costs, as API exploits are a common route into cloud environments.

3. Monitor traffic on your VPC

In most cases, cloud service providers offer built-in security monitoring tools as part of the package. Reliable VPC traffic monitoring tracks security threats, unexplained behavior, and possible performance issues. VPC flow logs allow you to achieve these goals.

Flow logs record IP traffic within VPC perimeters. You can link them to specific security groups and track metrics like refused connection requests. With high-quality tracking data, you can detect intrusions rapidly and take action to protect critical data.

When this type of monitoring is not provided by default, clients can turn to third-party providers for more support.

VPC flow logs also help you diagnose security group configuration issues. Flow data helps detect excessively restrictive group identities that block vital traffic.

VPC users should also take advantage of monitoring integrations where possible. CloudTrail and CloudWatch are, for example, specific AWS services that provide logging and monitoring, respectively, within AWS environments.

• CloudWatch makes flow logs even more powerful, offering real-time alerts and data insights. Use it to create customized security rules for resources and monitor performance at a granular level.
• CloudTrail generates activity logs across the VPC. This makes it vital for accurate audits and tracing of malicious user requests.

4. Use secure VPC peering

A VPC peer link enables you to connect many VPCs for data transfers, load balancing, or to ensure optimal performance. Peering establishes a direct VPC peer link via private IPv4 or IPv6 addresses. This boosts security as a VPC peer link does not rely on the public internet to connect resources. Data flows stay within secure VPC boundaries.

Use peering to connect applications or to create secure links with other VPCs (for instance, systems managed by third-party suppliers).

When peering VPCs, check that route tables comply with your security policies. Limit routing to private subnets, instead of allowing direct connections between the CIDR blocks of VPC peers.

5. Encrypt data within the VPC

Encryption should protect data at rest within VPCs and data in transit between VPCs or across the network perimeter. VPC platforms like IBM or Amazon AWS provide native encryption for at-rest data. Users can manage encryption keys, deciding who can decrypt data and who is denied access.

VPC platforms generally do not encrypt traffic entering or leaving the VPC. This is the user’s responsibility, and there are a couple of options.

Firstly, AWS offers Direct Connect. This creates secure direct connections to AWS private gateways. Direct connections do not use the public internet. They tend to have low latency, ensuring high speeds and reliability.

Cloud and site-to-site VPNs could be better solutions. This can cause confusion, as users sometimes incorrectly oppose VPC vs. VPN technology. VPNs create encrypted tunnels for inbound and outbound data. They complement VPCs by securing connections over the public internet.

For example, NordLayer’s business VPN creates secure connections to VPCs over the public internet. This suits remote workers, providing flexibility and secure connectivity.

Always-on VPN functionality also encrypts every connection to the VPC. There are no loose ends. Users share the same encrypted tunnel, no matter where they log on.

6. Optimize cost and performance

Performance and cost optimization assist security by limiting the number of exposed endpoints and allowing only essential network traffic.

Here are some suggestions to keep the cost of VPC deployments down:

• Plan the size and number of VPCs. Leave some room for growth, but don’t buy more capacity than you reasonably need. Most solutions enable scaling as your operations expand, and excess capacity can be costly.
• Don’t add extra VPCs if VPC sharing works. Sharing works well when you need to segment resources at an account level. New VPCs should logically segment your business resources. You don’t need a VPC for each team.
• Minimize the need for NAT gateways. VPC hosts charge for additional gateways, and every extra endpoint raises data breach risks. Centralized private gateways are more secure and probably more cost-effective. Low-risk assets can also sit behind public gateways – which incur very low or zero fees.
• Manage the use of IP addresses in your VPC. Elastic IPs and standard IP addresses incur extra costs. Ensure you utilize all assigned IP addresses. This doesn’t just cut costs. It also limits the scope for external cyber-attacks.
• Business VPNs also reduce overall security costs. Amazon charges a fee for VPN coverage or Direct Connect. You can achieve comparable security via NordLayer’s VPN (which covers other network assets as well).

Optimizing traffic is just as important, allowing you to monitor data transfers and user activity on each VPC (and cutting costs).

• Use IP management tools to keep tabs on assigned and unused addresses.
• Keep low-risk workload components within the same Availability Zone. This cuts the need for expensive data transfers.
• Use multiple Availability Zones to host critical assets. Redundancy hedges against AZ outages, keeping resources available at all times.
• Take advantage of flow logs to detect bottlenecks or routing issues.

Ensure secure cloud access with NordLayer

Whatever deployment type you choose, NordLayer can help secure access to VPC environments with features like Site-to-Site VPN. Employees can connect securely to VPC through Virtual Private Gateways, whether working from the office, home, or other remote locations. The connection is encrypted, and users’ personal IP addresses stay masked for added privacy.

Additional security features include multi-factor authentication (MFA), Device Posture Security to block unauthorized devices, and Cloud Firewall to create network access rules. These tools ensure that only authorized users and devices can reach your VPC without requiring Direct Connect or AWS VPN.

To find out more, check out NordLayer’s pricing page or get in touch with our Sales Team to discuss VPC solutions.

Alternatively, why not sign up with NordLayer as an MSP partner? Our partner program generates consistent revenues for members. As a cybersecurity partner, you will also benefit from NordLayer’s security expertise. Earn revenue and improve your VPC security posture by signing up today.

In Q3 2024, cyber-attacks reached a new all-time high. Attacks increased by 75% from Q3 2023 and 15% from the previous quarter.

A business virtual private network (VPN) can’t guarantee security, but it reduces risks by encrypting data in transit. OpenVPN is a popular choice in the market. It’s a solid choice for small-to-medium businesses (SMBs) and organizations that need basic protection. Yet, if you need specific features or advanced security, you might need another option. We’ll explore alternatives to OpenVPN that may be a better fit for your organization.

Overview of OpenVPN Access Server

OpenVPN has been a reliable VPN for many businesses. It provides encrypted remote access and safe site access. It’s also used to connect to virtual environments.

While previously praised as a cost-effective solution for SMBs, some user opinions are shifting. Based on concurrent users, OpenVPN’s pricing suits some but frustrates others. Costs rise quickly when advanced features are added, which can stretch budgets. According to some users, for basic secure access, OpenVPN works well, but businesses should weigh the costs carefully before deciding.

Most mentioned product strengths of OpenVPN Access Server

OpenVPN offers versatile features, including:

• Firewall and access control for enhanced security
• Multiple simultaneous authentication methods (PAM, RADIUS, LDAP, SAML, etc.)
• Clustering to improve availability and load capacity
• Site-to-site VPN support for secure connections
• SSL certificate support for encrypted access
• Integration with Okta, Entra ID, and more
• Support for per-user and per-group customizations, including routing and SAML

Most mentioned overall product benefits of OpenVPN Access Server

OpenVPN’s strengths focus on flexibility and ease of use:

• Licenses based on concurrent users, not employees, for better cost efficiency
• Easy setup for new VPN servers
• A robust CLI that saves time when managing multiple accounts

Drawbacks of OpenVPN Access Server

Despite its strong points, OpenVPN presents significant drawbacks:

• Initial setup can be complex and difficult for new users
• The support team is responsive but often unhelpful
• Free license limits to two simultaneous users
• Lack of centralized management for clustered server configurations
• Inability to restrict VPN connections by specific IPs or subnets
• Lack of features to bypass deep packet inspection (DPI)

Overall, OpenVPN Access Server offers security and flexibility for many businesses. It works well for organizations needing concurrent user licensing. However, the pricing model may not fit all budgets. Additional features can raise costs sharply, which may discourage SMBs.

Disclaimer: This product review is based on information provided on the company’s website and social networking forums such as G2, as well as customer feedback shared on these platforms, accessed on October 22, 2024.

Now, let’s look at OpenVPN alternatives; they are mentioned in no particular order.

1. NordLayer

Overview of NordLayer

NordLayer is a versatile VPN solution designed for businesses that need secure internet access and remote network access management. It’s one of the top OpenVPN alternatives, providing advanced business VPN solutions. It focuses on Zero Trust principles to protect sensitive data. NordLayer also offers flexibility, allowing you to adjust security settings to meet specific needs. Its combination of powerful features and ease of use makes it a strong choice for modern companies.

Most mentioned product strengths of NordLayer

NordLayer stands out with the following strengths:

• Secure remote access through NordLynx for fast VPN speed
• Comprehensive offerings beyond just Business VPN, including features that contribute to the SSE framework
• 30+ VPN server locations
• Quantum-resilient 256-bit AES encryption
• Application compatible with Android, iOS, Windows, macOS, Linux
• Browser Extension available for Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, Microsoft Edge, and Brave
• Smart Remote Access to interconnect remote networks and devices
• Intuitive interface for easy navigation
• Automated threat detection and response
• Compatible with hybrid networks and various IAM providers
• Always On VPN feature

Most mentioned overall product benefits of NordLayer

NordLayer brings several key benefits for users:

• Setup takes only about 5 minutes, making it very easy to use
• Straightforward and stable connectivity ensures smooth operation
• The service is known for helpful support and easy troubleshooting

Drawbacks of NordLayer

While NordLayer is a versatile VPN service, it has some drawbacks:

• Lacks support for languages other than English
• IdP users can’t be managed from the console, causing SCIM syncing issues
• Users can’t reduce licenses themselves; they need to contact support
• Not available on Samsung TV or Fire TV, limiting certain use cases

NordLayer reviews

Users rate NordLayer highly across review platforms. For more insights, see NordLayer’s G2 reviews and Gartner reviews.

Overall, NordLayer is easy to use, quick to set up, and reliable. It’s a great choice for secure network access. Some users mention issues with user management and language support, but it is still affordable with clear pricing. A key advantage is 24/7 support included with all plans, ensuring help is always available.

Disclaimer: This product review is based on information provided on the company’s website, VPN review sites, and social networking forums such as Gartner and G2, as well as customer feedback shared on these platforms, accessed on October 22, 2024.

2. Tailscale

Overview of Tailscale

Tailscale is a VPN service primarily used for personal VPN connections but has become popular with small organizations. It offers simple, secure peer-to-peer connections without the need for centralized VPN servers. While it may lack certain enterprise-grade security and compliance features, companies still use it to connect remote equipment, monitor control systems, and access internal networks securely.

Most mentioned product strengths

Tailscale’s strengths reflect its simplicity and reliability:

• Real-time data monitoring from remote sites
• The ability to “share” devices easily, making troubleshooting more efficient
• Enterprise-ready features like ACLs, identity management, and groups
• Simplified SSH access for secure connections

Most mentioned overall product benefits

Tailscale offers several key benefits that users highlight:

• Quick and simple deployment on remote stations
• Reliable and stable performance, with fast connections
• Efficiently finds the shortest route between devices for optimal speed
• Reduces the need for manual VPN setup, easing the burden on IT teams

Drawbacks

Despite its strengths, Tailscale has limitations that users frequently mention:

• The absence of an official self-hosted option forces reliance on the cloud, raising privacy concerns
• Site-to-site connections require additional hardware, which can complicate the setup
• The iOS app needs significant improvement to match other platforms
• The Android client lacks important functionality

Disclaimer: This product review is based on information provided on the company’s website, VPN review sites, and social networking forums such as G2 and Reddit, as well as customer feedback shared on these platforms, accessed on October 22, 2024.

3. Check Point Harmony SASE (formerly Perimeter 81)

Overview of Check Point Harmony SASE

Check Point Harmony SASE, previously known as Perimeter 81 (now part of Check Point), is a cloud-based secure access solution. It uses a Zero Trust model and granular control over private access. This makes it easier to manage hybrid internet workflows while enhancing security for businesses working across varied networks.

Most mentioned product strengths

Check Point Harmony SASE has several features to provide comprehensive, secure access:

• Granular Zero Trust private access for users
• Identity-centric policies applied to all users
• A built-in firewall that manages third-party vendor access
• Malware protection and web filtering for enhanced security
• Supports IPsec protocol for site-to-site connections

Most mentioned overall product benefits

Harmony SASE offers several user-approved benefits:

• Very few delays in internet connection; smooth performance
• Reliable documentation, ensuring quick problem resolution
• Strong reliability across different platforms

Drawbacks

Though powerful, Check Point Harmony SASE has its drawbacks:

• The desktop application occasionally stops working and requires reinstallation
• The user licensing model scales poorly, limiting larger teams
• Stability issues on macOS devices
• Difficult to schedule 30-minute technical support sessions
• Frustrating support experience for managed service providers (MSPs)

Disclaimer: This product review is based on information provided on the company’s website, VPN review sites, and social networking forums such as Gartner and G2, as well as customer feedback shared on these platforms, accessed on October 22, 2024.

4. GoodAccess

Overview of GoodAccess

GoodAccess provides a secure VPN solution tailored for small organizations and teams. It offers cloud-managed VPN servers and allows users to connect using static IP addresses, simplifying access management without the need for custom clients.

Most mentioned product strengths

GoodAccess offers several useful features for small businesses:

• Built-in multi-factor authentication options for enhanced security
• Support for Business VPNs with static IP addresses, ideal for consistent access
• Simple to set up and manage, making it a good choice for smaller teams

Most mentioned overall product benefits

GoodAccess is known for delivering several key benefits:

• Easy-to-manage platform with clear insights into team member usage
• Knowledgeable and helpful support team
• Fantastic connection speed, ensuring smooth remote access

Drawbacks

Despite its benefits, GoodAccess has some limitations:

• Scaling costs can become high when adding extra gateways
• Viewing credentials in the management portal may reset user passwords unexpectedly
• Plans can be confusing and often push users to start with a yearly subscription
• Adding additional members can be expensive
• Occasional connection drops reduce reliability

Disclaimer: This product review is based on information provided on the company’s website, VPN review sites, and social networking forums such as Gartner and G2, as well as customer feedback shared on these platforms, accessed on October 22, 2024.

5. UTunnel VPN

Overview of UTunnel VPN

UTunnel VPN is a secure VPN solution designed for small businesses, giving flexibility with a range of subscription plans. It includes centralized management and customization options, making it a reliable choice for teams needing secure remote access.

Most mentioned product strengths

UTunnel VPN stands out with several notable strengths:

• SCIM integration for streamlined user management
• Single Sign-On (SSO) for secure, centralized authentication
• Advanced controls for detailed customization
• Support for site-to-site VPN connections, ensuring seamless communication between locations

Most mentioned overall product benefits

Users appreciate the practical benefits UTunnel VPN offers:

• Straightforward process for adjusting and scaling the number of licenses
• Competitively priced entry-level plans, making it affordable for small businesses
• Simple setup process, ensuring quick deployment

Drawbacks

Despite its strengths, UTunnel VPN has some limitations:

• Not as well-known as other VPN providers, with fewer reviews and public feedback
• Lacks the advanced security features that larger providers offer

Disclaimer: This product review is based on information provided on the company’s website, VPN review sites, and social networking forums such as G2, as well as customer feedback shared on these platforms, accessed on October 22, 2024.

Conclusion

For basic security, OpenVPN serves many businesses well. But if you need more features, consider OpenVPN alternatives like NordLayer, Tailscale, or Check Point Harmony SASE. These alternatives to OpenVPN provide privacy and security, faster speeds, and better support. Choose a solution that matches your business needs and offers room for growth.

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